This year’s fashion is all about evolution. Abandoning the cold-shoulder cutout for a sexy one-shoulder look shows fashion recognizes our warm-weather fondness for bare shoulders. Ruffles are giving way to tight pleats for a silhouette that flows with movement. Easing jackets back from oversized, strong shoulders to tailored blazers and suits lets us relax into spring. You have favorite looks that have grown a little tired? Turn to their newer, fresher cousins for style inspiration. Replace fading stars with these trending designs.
OUT: Cold Shoulder
Bare shoulders will always be a summer go-to, but fashion this year has abandoned the cold shoulder cut-out in favor of one shoulder and strapless looks. Spring 2019 is trending off the shoulder silhouettes that are more modern and fun.
IN: Fringe
This Western-inspired trend can be seen on handbags, jackets, skirts as fashion takes a cue from the popularity of last year’s cowboy boot. Designers jumping on the trend are Coach, Cushnie and Tom Ford.
OUT: Ruffles
Look for a shape that’s fresher and more fluid than ruffles. You’ll find versatility in long and languid dresses and skirts that flow with movement.
IN: Tight Pleats
Designers are building on last year’s fling with pleats with a tighter micro construction. The more intricate pleat provides a silhouette that flows as it expands and contracts. Designers using the maximum impact pleat are Givenchy, Preen by Thornton Bregazzi, Pringle and Balmain.
OUT: Oversized Jackets
Go gentler this spring with jackets that aren’t has big and structured. Oversized padded jackets that emphasize strong shoulders are out and softer blazers are replacing them.
IN: Suiting
Softer silhouettes and looser layers make relaxed suits feel fresh for spring. Emerging options in neo-tailoring include skirt suits and shorts suits as well as trouser suits.
OUT: Casual Sportswear
Hoodies and track suits have been transformed into items so luxe you won’t recognize their origins in athletic wear, so designers are calling a halt to the casual sportswear trend. Bomber jackets are giving way to blazers. Only Dad sneakers are still going strong, and the favored color for your immaculate trainers is white.
IN: Utility Dressing
Utility chic makes dressing easy when taken to its ultimate expression: the jumpsuit. Jumpsuits do more than take the decision-making worry out of getting dress. They’re famously comfortable and cool as well as efficient.
OUT: Thigh High Boots and Stilettos
Expect to see more of a popular new boot shape—knee high and midi boots—and less of the thigh high length. Stilettos won’t vanish, but the ascendance of cargo pants and utilitarian shorts sets the stage for sporty sandals to dominate for Spring 2019. Designers leading the way for sandals and fancy flats are Valentino, Simone Rocha, Temperley London and Burberry.
IN: Sporty Sandals
These are a natural to pair with the newer, looser shorts silhouette that’s edging out bike shorts. Tailored, micro, knee-length shorts call for sandals that are down to earth and easy on your feet.
